It has been over 5 years since I celebrated any commercialized holidays in a traditional manner. Out of all the holidays, Thanksgiving, has been the most difficult holiday for me.
Personally, I still long for a familial connection as well as yearn
for foods that feed my soul. But alas,
my family disowned me in my youth, and as a vegan, I am heartbroken to hear
about all the turkeys that have been slaughtered for this holiday (some
estimates states over 40 million).Culturally, I long for a connection between the myths I learned in grade school and the truth about Thanksgiving.
Today, I mourned the loss of my family, tradition, and innocence. I reflected, forgave, and re-searched. My feelings are mixed as I honor the history of my life and that of my country. Both are rich, complex and also painful. And because, or inspite, of that history, I am here.
As the night grows nearer, I feel empowered to share one video I screened that might help you also make the connection to our history. Please watch, enjoy, and repost.
Oh, and may you enjoy your Thanksgiving/Day of Mourning!
Below is the video: Native Americans Mark Day of Mourning on Thanksgiving: "We are not Vanishing, We Are Not Conquered"
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